Cost of Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys is an enormous hassle and can be costly to replace. Depending on the kind of keys you have, the price will vary.
A locksmith or dealer for an estimate is the best way to learn how much it will be to replace a key. Here is a list of some of the factors which can affect the cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, sometimes called chip keys, have an electronic microchip embedded within the keyhead. When the chip is placed in the cylinder for ignition and it sends a coded message to the immobilizer of the vehicle. The code is matched to a unique ID number that is connected to the vehicle. This makes it very difficult to steal a vehicle because it is not able to be started without a valid code.
The main reason behind the development of this type of key was to make it harder for thieves to hot wire vehicles. Before this technology was invented, it was very simple for thieves to open cars by connecting two wires using a technique known as "hot wiring." Transponder keys are so secure because they require a unique code to be activated. They are difficult to duplicate using regular tools, and need to be duplicated only by an auto locksmith.
This means that the transponder key is more expensive than traditional bladed keys. However, the extra cost can be worth it in the end when considering the security benefits that come with this type of key.
Consider how important security is for you before deciding to purchase transponders. Consider your budget and lifestyle to decide whether the additional expense is worth it for you.
Car dealerships typically charge a premium for key replacement services for cars. It is because they are the only dealers of certain models of cars and have large overheads. There are other locksmiths for cars who provide the same service for less money.
If you're unsure whether your car is equipped with a transponder chip, inquire with the local dealer or auto locksmith. They'll be able tell you whether or not your car has a chip and also help determine the cost to purchase an upgrade. It is important to select an auto locksmith with a good reputation who has experience with your car model, whether you opt for the cheaper transponder or the more expensive keys that are not transponder-compatible.
Laser-Cut Keys
Some newer cars use the most advanced key design, known as laser cut keys or sidewinder key. These keys require an auto dealer or locksmith to cut them and program an electronic chip into the key. While these keys are more expensive than traditional keys, they do come with higher security features. This is why they are considered a better investment by those who want to prevent car theft.
Contrary to conventional two-sided keys laser-cut keys are cut in the center of the key only. These cuts are much more precise and much more difficult to duplicate than the standard notches used on regular key blades. They are also more difficult to discern which makes them a great security measure for thieves.
To make a laser-cut key, the locksmith or dealer utilizes a special milling machine. These machines use a bit shaped like a drill to slowly strip the metal from the key. They can remove exactly the amount of metal needed for a specific key, which gives them the highest level of precision. This makes it harder for thieves to make their own copy.
Laser-cut keys are also more secure than traditional keys since they are not able to open other cars with the same lock. When a standard car key is inserted, it sends a signal to the vehicle, which lets it recognize it. This is why the engine will refuse to start when it detects an unidentified key. However, laser-cut keys come with an embedded transponder that is registered to a specific vehicle. This means that even if a thief is able to cut and program a key laser-cut but the engine will not start.
To cut a key laser-cut technicians will need to have the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle to locate the proper specifications for it on the CNC machine. This process can take anywhere between 15 minutes to a few hours based on the make and model of the vehicle being examined. Once the correct specifications are entered the key cut by laser can be programmed by the locksmith or dealer.
Dealerships
The dealership is the most expensive, however, it is the most often needed alternative to replace your car keys. It is often covered by your insurance or warranty. Check with automotive key replacement to ensure that key replacement is included in the policy. It's also a great idea to have any damaged, lost or stolen keys deprogrammed by the dealer, as this will prevent anyone from using them again in the future.
If you have an ordinary key fob, it might be the most affordable option to replace it at the dealership. If your key fob is not replicable and comes with a built in chip it might cost more to replace it at the dealership. The cost of a keyfob may differ widely based on the model of your car and model. It is recommended to talk to local locksmiths, mechanics or dealerships for a precise estimate.
You can also save money by having your spare key copied at the dealership. auto key replacement is cheaper than having it cloned by a locksmith, but you'll need to make sure that your spare key is compatible with your vehicle.
If you're replacing your car key at the dealership or using a locksmith, it's crucial to make sure you write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This will ensure that your key replacement is correctly fitted and can be connected to your vehicle. You can locate your VIN in the owner's manual on your dashboard, in the corner of your windshield, or on the front of your engine block.
In the past, it wasn't a big deal to lose the car keys. Modern technology has made it more difficult to replace keys and this can be costly. You should always have a spare car key at the go or be aware of your options in case your keys are lost or stolen.